If you suffer from vertebral compression fractures in your spine, you know that the pain and limited mobility can greatly affect your quality of life. These small breaks in the bones of your back can lead to pain, limited mobility, and a hunched posture.

A minimally invasive procedure called kyphoplasty can relieve pain and restore the height and stability of the fractured vertebra. Read on to find the answers to some common questions about kyphoplasty and the information you might need to make an informed decision about the best treatment to address vertebral compression fractures.

What Causes Compression Fractures?

Firstly, let’s understand the problem. In short, vertebral compression fractures are small breaks in the bones that stack up to form your back—medically known as vertebrae. 

Now, let’s move on to the root of the problem. Typically, these fractures stem from conditions that weaken the bones, such as cancer, vertebral hemangiomas, and osteoporosis. However, they can also be seen in people who have suffered a fall or have been in a car accident. 

What Is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to relieve pain, restore vertebral height, and stabilize the fractured vertebra. A balloon-like device is used to create space within the compressed vertebra, followed by an injection of bone cement to stabilize the fracture. Some of the conditions commonly treated with kyphoplasty include:

• Osteoporosis compression fractures
• Hemangiomas—noncancerous blood vessel growths in the vertebral body
• Cancerous tumors—cancer in the vertebral body

How Is Kyphoplasty Used for Compression Fractures?

Kyphoplasty is specifically designed to treat compression fractures in the spine by restoring the height and stability of the fractured vertebra. This procedure can greatly alleviate pain and improve the patient’s mobility.

Kyphoplasty offers similar benefits as vertebroplasty when treating compression fractures but with a lower risk of cement leakage. This reduced risk can be attributed to the more viscous nature of the cement used in kyphoplasty, which requires less force to be injected into the body. Additionally, the formation of a cavity during the kyphoplasty procedure further decreases the need for forceful injection.

When Is Kyphoplasty Performed?

Kyphoplasty is typically performed for recent compression fractures, usually within a few weeks of the injury. However, the exact timing of the procedure may vary based on the individual case and the recommendation of your healthcare provider. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect a compression fracture, as early intervention is crucial for better outcomes.

What Is the Kyphoplasty Procedure?

Before the procedure, you will receive anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the process. With X-ray guidance, your doctor will carefully insert a hollow needle through the pedicle and into the vertebral body, inserting a balloon-like device into the fractured vertebra. 

Under continuous X-ray guidance, the balloon is inflated to gently create space and restore the height of the vertebra while being diligently monitored for consistent pressure. Once the desired height is achieved, the balloon is deflated and removed, while a specially formulated acrylic bone cement is used to fill the void. This cement acts as an internal cast, allowing for the restoration of vertebral body height and reducing pain.

When the procedure is complete, the needle will be safely removed, and band-aids will be applied over the needle site. The cement itself will begin to harden within a matter of minutes, ensuring that it is fully set before you leave the procedure table. 

In most cases, only one needle placement is required. However, if a physician determines that additional needle placements are needed for satisfactory results, they may choose to proceed with further placement. This approach ensures that the cement mixture is properly spread and the compression fracture is completely filled.

Once the procedure is finished, you will be taken to the recovery room, where a medical team will observe you for a period of 30 minutes.

How Should I Prepare for Kyphoplasty?

To prepare for a kyphoplasty procedure, your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions tailored to your needs. Generally, you may need to avoid food and drink for a certain period before the procedure, and you may be asked to temporarily stop taking certain medications. 

It is important to discuss your medical history, current medications, and any allergies with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety during the procedure.

What Can I Expect After Kyphoplasty?

After kyphoplasty, you can expect to experience immediate pain relief in many cases. You may notice improved mobility and a decrease in your hunched posture. 

You can rest assured that there are no specific restrictions to worry about. This is because the cement used during the procedure has already completely hardened, providing stability to your vertebral body and the surrounding area. This means that you can proceed with your daily activities without any concern.

However, there are simple measures you can take to alleviate any discomfort. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, ice packs, and pain medications can all be utilized to manage the soreness effectively.

The band-aids placed over the needle site can safely be removed within 24 hours. However, it’s recommended to avoid getting in a bathtub for at least 24 hours to allow proper healing. If you wish, you may take a shower immediately following the procedure.

While results can vary, many patients report an immediate return to activities that were previously causing pain, which is an encouraging sign of your improved condition. It is important to listen to your body and gradually increase your activity level as you feel comfortable.

How Long Does It Take a Compression Fracture to Heal After Kyphoplasty?

The healing time for a compression fracture after kyphoplasty can vary depending on various factors, including the severity of the fracture and individual patient characteristics. However, the full healing process can take several weeks to a few months, during which time your healthcare provider will closely monitor your progress and provide guidance for optimal recovery.

If you are suffering from a compression fracture, kyphoplasty may be a viable treatment option. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, our experienced medical team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to help you find relief from your pain. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life.